12/17/2013

WILBURTON, OK (Dec. 17, 2013) – Science teachers from 16 GEAR UP partner schools recently participated in a two–day workshop designed to help them integrate technology effectively and successfully into instruction.

The beginners’ training was conducted by TI Specialist Todd Morstein, a Chemistry and AP Chemistry Instructor at Glacier High School in Kalispell, Montana. TI Specialist David Young, a Mathematics–Science–Tech Instructor at Fayetteville High School in Fayetteville, Arkansas, conducted the training for more experienced participants.

Eastern Oklahoma State College’s GEAR UP program provided each teacher’s classroom with a TI Navigator system, complete with 30 handhelds and probes.

“We are glad to offer this exciting technology to science teachers,” said GEAR UP Project Director Linda Morgan. “The growing emphasis on STEM education and the introduction of rigorous new standards have intensified the need for effective professional development for front line math and science educators. GEAR UP has partnered with Texas Instruments to bring this innovative technology to science classrooms.”

In addition to receiving the TI Navigator system and professional development training, the teachers receive coaching. A TI specialist travels to the school sites to work one–on–one with teachers, answering questions, providing support, and modeling best practices.

“It’s a win–win,” continued Morgan. “The onsite and online professional development and coaching help educators learn how to use TI technologies as a core component of instruction. And, it makes learning more fun for the students. What more could you ask for?”

Eastern’s GEAR UP grant has also provided TI Navigator systems with handhelds to 61 partner mathematics classrooms. Math teachers also participate in professional development and coaching.

The Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is a federal initiative to increase the number of low–income students who enter and successfully transition into postsecondary education. Eastern will receive more than $12.6 million during a seven–year period to help students and educators in 30 partner schools.

Blake Downing, Wilburton High School science instructor, uses a probe and handheld to gather and monitor data during an experiment at a recent TI Science BOOST professional development training sponsored by GEAR UP.